Camping spots near Winslow, Arizona range from developed state park facilities to primitive desert camping areas. Located in the high desert at approximately 4,850 feet elevation, the region experiences temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night in summer months. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round, though winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Explore archaeological sites: At Homolovi State Park Campground, campers can visit multiple Hopi ruins within walking distance. "The visitor center is awesome. Amazing architecture for a visitor center in the middle of nowhere. The ruins are cool, there are a few different sites and more is being uncovered all the time," notes Megan B. The park offers a 1.2-mile trail through historic areas where pottery fragments can be observed.
Kayak Clear Creek: McHood Park Campground provides direct access to water recreation. "I woke up the next morning and went for a run around the reservoir before kayaking the 6.5 mile round trip out & back along Clear Creek," explains Alex D. The reservoir supports fishing, swimming, and boating during warmer months.
Visit ghost town ruins: At Two Guns Ghost Town, visitors can explore abandoned structures dating back to Route 66's heyday. "Not only is this a ghost town but is a ghost RV park as well. I visited the nearby death caves. Very interesting," mentions Ron R. The canyon area features remnants of old buildings, cave formations, and historic markers.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Camping areas away from Winslow provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "If astronomy is your thing, the view of the night sky is spectacular," shares Co A. about their experience at Homolovi State Park. The high desert elevation and minimal light pollution create optimal conditions for astronomical observation.
Scenic desert sunsets: Painted Desert Rim Drive Dispersed Pulloff offers dramatic sunset views across the painted desert landscape. "OMG!!! THIS PLACE WAS AMAZING!! Private, there was 1 other camper on the rim, and they were probably 1/4 mile away. The sunset and sunrise was magical!" reports Dana H. The elevated position along the rim provides unobstructed horizon views.
Convenient overnight parking: For travelers passing through, Winslow Visitor Center provides free overnight parking in town. "It's a few blocks from the fun and kitchy part of town with all the 'Standing on the Corner' things, plus some other interesting things to see and some good places to eat," explains Laura M. This central location allows for easy access to downtown attractions.
What you should know
Train noise affects some sites: Railroad tracks run near several camping areas, particularly those closest to town. "If you love the sound of trains, this is the spot for you. There must have been a dozen trains that ran past my site," warns FearLes about the Winslow Visitor Center.
Seasonal weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. "Being so exposed high up on a flat ridge, it was a bit breezy. I can imagine it can get extremely windy and sandy during a dust storm," notes Make Memes Not War P. about Painted Desert Rim Drive.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Most free camping areas lack amenities. "There is a repeater tower within line of sight - I'm guessing that's why I had great cell service (T-Mobile)," reports Steven G. about Painted Desert Rim Drive, highlighting that cell coverage can be unexpectedly good at some remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom quality varies: Meteor Crater RV Park provides private shower facilities. "The shower rooms are great with locking private sink, toilet, shower," shares Jessica M. At developed campgrounds, check if facilities are operational seasonally, as some close in winter.
Educational opportunities: Plan time for historical sites that interest children. "Camp sites are right by the water for good fishing or you can park up above if you do not like bugs as they are worse down by the water than on the upper campsites," advises Amber B. about McHood Park Campground.
Spacing between sites: Site privacy differs significantly between campgrounds. "Sites were clean with a little space from neighbors. Some train/highway noise," notes Meghan B. about Homolovi State Park. For families wanting more space, dispersed camping areas typically offer greater separation from other campers.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility and parking: OK RV Park in nearby Holbrook provides level sites for larger rigs. "All roadways and spaces are paved. The hook-ups are easy to access and spaces all appear relatively level," explains Melody M. about Homolovi State Park, noting its suitability for RVs.
Temperature management: The high desert environment means extreme temperature fluctuations. "There is good space between sites. They have primitive sites, sites with water, and sites with water & electric. I chose water & electric, for $40/nite. One thing to know and be prepared for, is this is the desert plains. It is VERY windy," advises Sheri K.
Dump station availability: Only developed campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. "However just be aware that there are no hookups at all and no place to dump your tanks that I can find," cautions Ronald about McHood Park Campground. RVers staying at dispersed sites should plan accordingly.
